Living with atopic dermatitis — the most common type of eczema — often means dealing with dry, itchy, irritated skin. A good moisturizer is more than a comfort item. It’s an essential part of caring for your skin and preventing flare-ups.

Skin affected by atopic dermatitis loses moisture easily and is more likely to get irritated or infected. Although dermatologists (doctors who treat skin conditions) sometimes prescribe treatments such as topical steroids or calcineurin inhibitors to reduce inflammation, many people also rely on over-the-counter (OTC) moisturizers.

Moisturizers come in different forms:

• Lotions contain oil, water, or alcohol. These light products may need to be shaken before use if they separate.
• Creams are thicker than lotions and often have preservatives.
• Ointments are semisolid and made mostly of oil. They rarely contain preservatives and are less likely to cause allergic reactions.
• Gels can be water- or alcohol-based and melt into skin quickly. They may contain added preservatives and fragrances.

Finding the right moisturizer for atopic dermatitis can be frustrating. “I constantly have to change moisturizers,” one MyEczemaTeam member wrote. “I’ll find something that’ll work for a few months, then my skin goes through changes. My moisturizer is no longer effective, and I have to find a new one.”

It may take some trial and error to figure out what works best for you. The good news is that many OTC moisturizers contain ingredients that can help protect and repair skin affected by atopic dermatitis.

1. Petroleum Jelly

Petrolatum (better known as petroleum jelly) led to “significant improvements” in atopic dermatitis symptoms, according to a report published in Dermatology Research and Practice. Products containing petroleum jelly also tend to cost less than prescription treatments.

“I constantly have to change moisturizers. I’ll find something that’ll work for a few months, then my skin goes through changes. My moisturizer is no longer effective, and I have to find a new one.”

— A MyEczemaTeam member

Petroleum jelly forms a very effective barrier over the skin, helping prevent moisture loss. Dermatologists often recommend pure petroleum jelly, like Vaseline, because it’s unlikely to cause allergic reactions. “Vaseline is the only moisturizer that helps and doesn’t irritate my hands,” one MyEczemaTeam member said. “I lather them up multiple times a day, as it has no alcohol in it to dry out your skin.”

Some people living with atopic dermatitis find 100 percent petroleum jelly to be too greasy for daily use. One MyEczemaTeam member reported a positive experience with Aquaphor, which contains petroleum jelly and other ingredients: “Aquaphor does a good job as well. It’s not quite as greasy as Vaseline.”

Added ingredients may raise the risk of a reaction in some people. If you have questions about which product to use, speak with your dermatologist.

2. Oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal — a fine powder made from ground oat grain — is a common ingredient in moisturizers, soaps, and bath products made for itchy, sensitive skin. Colloidal oatmeal soothes and protects by forming a barrier that helps lock in moisture. This ingredient also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce discoloration and irritation during a flare.

You can find colloidal oatmeal in many OTC lotions and creams. Some people also add it to bathwater to help soothe large areas of irritated skin. One MyEczemaTeam member recommended oatmeal in all its forms: “Had a flare-up last week. I still believe oatmeal is a wonderful soother in soap, lotions, and by itself. It’s wonderful.”

3. Ceramides

Ceramides — natural lipids (fats) found in the skin’s outer layer — help keep the skin barrier strong and healthy. Research shows that people with atopic dermatitis often have fewer ceramides or changes in the substances’ quality, which can make it harder for skin to stay moist and protected.

Many OTC moisturizers now include added ceramides to help restore the skin barrier and reduce dryness. Brands such as CeraVe offer options that some MyEczemaTeam members have found helpful. “If you haven’t used it yet, try CeraVe. It is an excellent lotion,” wrote one member.

Another member reported a mixed experience: “I often feel as if I have tried everything on the market for itching. However, I came across a lotion I’ve not yet tried. It’s CeraVe Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream. CeraVe products generally don’t work for me, but I have to say this one actually helps.”

4. Natural Oils and Butters

Some people with atopic dermatitis have found relief by moisturizing with natural oils and butters. These ingredients may help soothe irritation and support the skin barrier:

• Coconut oil — Has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial (germ-fighting) properties
• Sunflower seed oil — May help repair the skin barrier and improve hydration
• Shea butter (a paste derived from the nut of the shea tree) — Offers anti-inflammatory and moisturizing effects

In general, thicker moisturizers work better for atopic dermatitis, but the best moisturizer is one you’ll use often.

These substances may be helpful for some people with atopic dermatitis but may cause allergic reactions in others. Also, avoid using olive oil on sensitive or eczema-prone skin — research has shown it can weaken the skin barrier and make symptoms worse.

5. Coal Tar

Coal tar has long been used to treat itchy, inflamed skin, including atopic dermatitis. Studies suggest it may help repair the skin barrier by supporting the skin’s natural proteins. Many OTC moisturizers contain coal tar as an ingredient. However, products with coal tar aren’t recommended for babies and young children.

Tips for Selecting a Moisturizer

Your skin may change over time, and a product that once worked well may stop providing relief. You may also find that some products work better than others, depending on where flare-ups occur on your body.

In general, thicker moisturizers (like ointments) are more effective because they lock in moisture and protect the skin barrier, but the best moisturizer is one you’ll use often. For dry skin on the face, look for a fragrance-free moisturizer that’s also free of other potential irritants.

According to the National Eczema Association, moisturizing right after bathing is critical for people with eczema.

For additional guidance, the National Eczema Association (NEA) offers the NEA Seal of Acceptance. This symbol indicates that a product meets specific safety and ingredient standards for people with eczema. You can also browse the NEA’s online directory of products. Just keep in mind that not all helpful products carry the seal — companies have to apply for it.

If you have any questions or concerns about selecting a moisturizer for your skin, talk to your dermatologist or atopic dermatitis specialist. They can recommend OTC products that may work for you and help you avoid those that could trigger a flare.

MyEczemaTeam Member Recommendations

With so many OTC moisturizers available, it can be hard to know where to start. MyEczemaTeam members often share their go-to products:

• “I found that Cetaphil lotion worked better than the 2.5 percent cortisone or Arnicare!”
• “Skin is still dry, but by applying Aveeno, my skin is more supple.”
• “Bought myself some La Roche-Posay for under my eyes. … I must say after two days, my eyes look so much better.”

What works for one person might not work for another, but hearing from others living with atopic dermatitis can help narrow your choices — or inspire a new one to try.

Ingredients To Avoid

Some ingredients in moisturizers and skin care products can trigger irritation or allergic reactions in people with eczema. The NEA outlines what ingredients must be left out of products to earn its Seal of Acceptance. Ingredients to avoid include:

• Fragrances (including essential oils)
• Formaldehyde releasers (preservatives that release small amounts of formaldehyde)
• Chemical sunscreens (like oxybenzone and avobenzone)
• Any ingredient on the NEA Ecz-clusion List (a comprehensive list of common irritants and allergens)

The Soak and Seal Method for Bathing and Moisturizing

If you’re living with atopic dermatitis, how you apply moisturizer is just as important as which one you use. One effective, dermatologist-recommended strategy — especially for people with eczema, including atopic dermatitis — is a process called the soak and seal method.

Bathe To Hydrate Skin

Dry skin can be aggravated by low humidity, cold air, and harsh soaps and skin care products. Bathing helps bring moisture into your skin — if you do it gently. The National Eczema Association recommends bathing once a day in lukewarm water (never hot). Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser — or skip cleanser during flare-ups. Avoid scrubbing your skin.

Showers or baths both work. If you’re having a bad flare-up, your dermatologist might suggest special additives such as bleach, baking soda, or salt to help calm irritation — but use these only under your doctor’s guidance, and follow their directions exactly.

Moisturize Immediately

After bathing — your soak — gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel, and leave your skin slightly damp.

According to the NEA, moisturizing right after bathing is critical for people with eczema. First, apply any prescription treatments, then cover all other areas of the skin with a thick moisturizer within three minutes. This helps trap — or seal — the water in your skin.

Let the moisturizer soak in for a few minutes before you get dressed. Keep in mind that some moisturizers may take even longer to absorb. One member shared their experience: “My doctor has suggested Epaderm as a moisturizer. I’ve had very quick results, although it takes a good half hour to soak in. It’s great for overnight use.”

Create a Relaxing Routine

Set aside ample time to “soak and seal” and give your skin the care it needs — especially at night, when your skin can heal as you sleep.

Here’s how one member described their evening treatment: “I took a warm bath with vinegar and baking soda. It really relieved the itchy burning sensation. Then, I moisturized with prescription triamcinolone and some colloidal oatmeal lotion. Man, it’s heaven.”

Creating a consistent bathing and moisturizing ritual can help ease symptoms and make your skin feel more comfortable day to day.

Find Your Team

MyEczemaTeam is the social network for people with eczema and their loved ones. On MyEczemaTeam, members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with eczema.

Have you found a moisturizer that works for your atopic dermatitis? Do you make skin care a relaxing ritual? Share your experience in a comment below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.